Why is Christ's imputed righteousness essential for salvation?

The imputed righteousness of Christ is crucial for salvation, as described in Romans 10:4, which states that 'Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth.' This means that our works are insufficient for justification; only Christ's perfect obedience and sacrificial death can satisfy God's justice. Through faith, believers receive this righteousness, enabling them to be declared just before God. This doctrine combats the notions of self-righteousness and works-based salvation, emphasizing that it is solely by grace through faith in Christ that sinners are saved.